The aura of the Crusaders loomed over West Powers this week, but not for try-and-scoring machine Zack Kibirig.
The Force will aim to post their first away win of the Super Rugby Pacific season when they take on the Crusaders in Christchurch on Saturday.
Zach Kibirige of Western Force.Credit: getty
The last time the Force beat a contender in enemy territory was in 2009, when they escaped with a 23-23 draw.
Just two years ago, the Force suffered a 53-0 defeat in Christchurch that remains the franchise’s biggest ever loss.
The Force (3-6) are 10th in the standings, and all six of their losses have come on the road.
It’s a record the Force wants to correct, but Christchurch looms as one of the least likely places to end away rot.
Earlier this week, squad captain Michael Wells spoke of the need to break the crusaders’ aura and treat them like any other team.
It will be an easier task for Briton Kibirige, who didn’t grow up watching the Crusaders wreak havoc on their opponents as they won 11 Super Championships.
“I never really watched much,” said Kibirige, who spent his entire career in England before being linked with the Force this season.
